Types of
Fertilisers
Contain only one primary nutrient (N, P, or K)
• | Targeted nutrient correction |
• | Useful for addressing specific deficiencies |
• | Requires precise application to avoid imbalances |
or
Contain a balanced mix of NPK plus additional nutrients
• | Comprehensive nutrient supply |
• | Convenient for overall plant health |
• | Reduces the need for multiple fertilization products. |
Derived from natural sources like compost and manure
• | Enhance soil health and structure |
• | Release nutrients gradually |
• | Environmentally friendly |
or
Chemically manufactured for precise nutrient content
• | Quick nutrient availability |
• | Customizable formulations |
• | High nutrient concentration. |
Nourish plants gradually over an extended period
• | Quick nutrient availability |
• | Customizable formulations |
• | High nutrient concentration. |
or
Provide rapid nutrient availability to plants
• | Fast-acting for immediate results |
• | Convenient for addressing nutrient deficiencies |
• | Requires careful application to avoid overuse |
Solid, granulated form for slow and controlled release
• | Uniform nutrient distribution |
• | Long-lasting effect |
• | Suitable for various soil types |
or
Formulated in liquid form for easy application
• | Quick absorption by plant roots |
• | Ideal for foliar feeding |
• | Requires frequent application |
Fertilisers
Application methods
Broadcasting
Even spreading of fertilizer over the soil surface
• | Uniform nutrient distribution |
• | Suitable for large areas |
• | Require more fertilizer |
Banding
Concentrated application in bands along rows or plant beds
• | Targeted nutrient delivery to plant roots |
• | Reduces fertilizer use, minimizing waste |
• | Ideal for row crops and precision farming |
Foliar spraying
Application of fertilizer directly to plant leaves
• | Rapid nutrient absorption through leaf surfaces |
• | Effective for addressing nutrient deficiencies |
• | Requires careful timing to avoid leaf burn |
Fertigation
Fertilizer mixed with irrigation water delivered directly to plant roots
• | Precise nutrient delivery to root zones |
• | Water-efficient and reduces nutrient runoff |
• | Requires specialized equipment |
Soil Injection
Fertilizer injected directly into the soil
• | Targets the root zone for efficient nutrient uptake |
• | Minimizes nutrient loss to the environment |
• | Suitable for established plants and trees |
Topdressing
Application of fertilizer on the soil surface around plants
• | Additional nutrient supply during the growing season |
• | Minimizes soil disturbance |
• | Effective for established crops |
Fertiliser
Technology
Enhancing Agricultural Efficiency and Sustainability
Fertiliser technology represents a pivotal advancement in modern agriculture, revolutionizing the way we nourish crops and optimize yields.
2.15
Metric Tonnes
Fertilisers used/hectare of arable land in Malaysia in 2021
(Source: World Bank collection of development indicators)
5.86
Billion (RM)
Sales of manufactured fertilisers in Malaysia in 2022
(Source: World Bank collection of development indicators)
The Triple Threat of
Nitrogen Fertilizers
Synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, contribute to climate change in three key ways.
THREAT 1
Microbes in the soil convert nitrogen fertilizer into nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas that also damages the ozone layer.
THREAT 2
Rain and irrigation runoff can wash nutrients from fertilizer and livestock manure into waterways, where they feed algae blooms that produce methane (CH4), another greenhouse gas.
THREAT 3
Manufacturing nitrogen fertilizer is energy-intensive. It uses natural gas or other hydrocarbons and releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in the process.